Go Back
Spiced Christmas Margarita Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Spiced Christmas Margarita Recipe

I’ve always loved a cocktail that feels like Christmas in a glass, and this Spiced Christmas Margarita absolutely delivers that holiday magic. When I made it for the first time, the warm spice from ginger beer blended perfectly with the sweet-tart cranberry and cherry syrup—it tasted like a cozy celebration.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 30 ml Anejo Tequila – The rich caramel-like depth of aged tequila pairs beautifully with the festive flavors. Opt for a good-quality Anejo to get that smooth, slightly smoky finish.
  • 30 ml Cointreau – This orange liqueur adds a burst of citrus brightness that lifts the drink’s flavor beautifully. You can substitute with Triple Sec if needed but Cointreau gives a more refined taste.
  • 15 ml Fresh Lime Juice – Always squeeze fresh lime juice rather than using bottled—it keeps the margarita vibrant and crisp.
  • 60 ml Spiced Ginger Beer – This is where the cozy warm spice comes from. I used Bundaberg Spiced Ginger Beer, which adds a gentle kick and lovely aroma. Avoid using flat or mild ginger ale—it won’t have the same effect.
  • 15 ml Homemade Cranberry and Cherry Syrup – This syrup adds sweetness tartness, and a gorgeous ruby color. Making it from scratch makes all the difference!
  • To make the syrup: Combine 1 cup cranberry juice ½ cup tinned cherries, and ¼ cup caster sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the liquid reduces by half. Cool completely before using.
  • Garnish: Meringue kisses mint leaves, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and passionfruit. The mix of textures and colors makes the presentation festive and fun!

Method
 

  1. Start by adding cranberry juice, tinned cherries, and caster sugar into a saucepan. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer until it thickens and reduces by half. Allow it to cool before using. This syrup gives the margarita its deep festive color and fruity sweetness.
  2. In a cocktail jug or shaker, combine the Anejo tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, spiced ginger beer, and the cooled cranberry-cherry syrup. Stir well to combine but don’t shake too hard—this helps preserve the fizz of the ginger beer.
  3. Pour your margarita into a chilled glass. For that wow factor, garnish with a mix of meringue kisses, mint leaves, and fresh berries. The contrast of colors and textures makes it look like a drink straight out of a holiday dream.

Notes

  • Always chill your glass before pouring—it keeps the margarita icy cold longer.
  • Don’t skip the Anejo tequila; its aged flavor adds a cozy, caramel depth that suits the Christmas theme.
  • Make the syrup a day in advance—it thickens slightly when cooled, enhancing the flavor balance.
  • Taste before serving; if you prefer it sweeter, add a splash more syrup.
  • For a stunning look, freeze a few berries inside ice cubes and drop them into the glass.